Any housing option, whether it be a condo, townhouse or detached home comes with its own list of pros and cons. Each has both benefits and disadvantages and if you are still deciding which option is right for you, it is a good idea to create a list of what you like and do not like before you begin house hunting.
There is a significant difference between attached and detached home but if you are leaning toward a traditional home there are some things you should consider. The Penticton real estate market in the sunny Okanagan Valley has some great properties to choose from but go over your list in order to ensure a detached one is the right choice for you.
Detached Home Pros
- The Yard
One of the biggest positives when buying a detached house is the front and back yards. Townhouses or condos typically have a very small one or only a patio while single-family homes have a lot bigger outdoor space. If you want a dog, have children or like to invite friends over for a barbecue having an outdoor play area is a major bonus.
- Freedom of Choice
Condos and townhomes come with attached neighbours and a community association you need to go through if you plan on doing any renovations to your property. In a detached house you are able to make any changes you like inside and outside your home. If you prefer to decide for yourself what to do with your residence this is the better option.
- Added Privacy
While you may have neighbours living close by, single-family homes have added privacy when compared to an attached one where you have people living above, below or beside you sharing walls and ceilings. A backyard barbecue is much more enjoyable when you do not have to worry about such close neighbours. A fence can make a detached home quite private.
- Extra Space
Even if you buy a small single-family home generally you will find yourself with greater space than in an attached property. Most come with either a basement and attic or a garage giving you additional storage options. In a detached home you can play around with the area and rooms while in a condo or townhouse you get what you buy without an option for change.
- Holds Value
A detached home usually holds its value longer than a condo or a townhouse. As times goes by attached properties tend to get increasingly rundown and worth less while a well-maintained single-family home might even go up in price as the years go by.
Detached Home Cons
- Location
Buying a single-family home tends to means a longer commute and a life in the suburbs. While this is not always the case, detached homes tend to cost more in urban areas so buyers often opt to purchase further out. Condos and townhomes are usually located in the downtown core or close to public transit and other amenities.
- Price of Property
If you want to buy in a popular neighbourhood you will likely find detached homes to be more expensive than the alternatives. As single-family homes are often sought after they tend to come with a higher price tag and you may get less than expected. Buying an attached property typically means less money upfront.
- Maintenance and Repairs
One thing that is nice about condos and townhouses is repairs and maintenance are shared expenses divided among property holders within the community. When you purchase your own home this is not the case and you should ensure you put money aside each month in case surprise costs pop up.
- Lack of Amenities
Unless you get a house with a backyard pool you’ll find yourself lacking this amenity. Attached homes tend to come with significant amenities such as a clubhouse, fitness centre and sometimes even a pool, hot tub and tennis courts. Without these you need to buy your own gym and pool memberships if you want access to them.
- Larger Utility Bills
Unless you get a recently built home it is likely you will find your utilities higher than if you are living in a condo or townhouse. Older homes typically lack energy efficiency and you won’t be sharing walls or the building with other owners who split the cost with you. Plan on spending more money each month for things like heating or cooling your home.
